Today, we’re diving into the creative world of Cole Knight, a DJ and producer who has been making waves with her latest EP, ‘Freak’, marking her debut release on HE.SHE.THEY. Records. Known for her eclectic blend of house, techno, and bold breakbeats, Knight’s music has been soundtracking global dance floors for the past few years, with unforgettable performances at the likes of Miami’s Club Space, London’s KOKO, and Amnesia Ibiza. On ‘Freak’ Knight continues to push boundaries, and raise the bar in her role as producer and performer.
She sat down with us to discuss her inspirations, the story behind ‘Freak’, and discuss some of her career milestones so far.
WWD: Hey Cole, great to meet you! You recently released a double-track EP, ‘Freak.’ Can you tell us a little bit about the record and what listeners can expect?
This EP was all about experimenting more with my sound and taking it to new levels of intricacy. Each project I work on is a direct reflection of what’s going through my mind during that time of life. When I was working on these two tracks, I was in the process of deepening my relationship to myself and not holding back. ‘Freak’ is a sexy, playful, bubbly track that can go anywhere in the set and ‘PSA’ is a powerful driving track with a story.
WWD: The EP came out via HE.SHE.THEY., who have a long history of working with some of the best in the industry – Catz ‘n Dogz, Sister Bliss, Cakes da Killa. How does it feel to be part of that label?
It was on my moodboard for a long time actually – I love the HE.SHE.THEY. project and team. They are always waving the flag for inclusion and equality while pushing the boundaries on lineups that make me want to go out even on my nights off, haha. Being a part of the label is an honour and major compliment. I am very grateful to be a part of their community.
WWD: A common thread running through both, ‘Freak’ and ‘PSA’ is this message of positivity – is this a recurring theme in your work, and what’s the significance of this message for you?
In many ways it is. I read a scientific study about how humans cannot experience anger and gratitude at the same time. This really resonated with me. Every moment is an opportunity to be present in what is – an eternal practice of nowness, might as well have fun with it.
WWD: ‘PSA’ touches on your previous life in athletics – you have a pretty unique story around how you started in music. Can you tell us a little more about that time?
I mean, I’ve had music around me all my life. Growing up I played piano and electric guitar. I was just obsessed with bands such as Blink 182 and would come home from school every day to practise and memorise songs on my guitar. Fast forward to my university days where I was running cross country and track at high levels of competition. We were running 70 miles a week. Music always kept me motivated. I still test out new tracks by going for a run and seeing if it gets me moving.
WWD: You grew up in the Midwest, lived in LA, and now Miami, while touring globally. Which place has influenced your music the most, and how has it shaped your sound?
I feel Miami, and also spending the last three summer seasons in Ibiza. I am surrounded by amazing music and artists all the time when in either of those places. It’s incredibly inspiring! There’s also something to be said about the energy of living in sunny locales. The warm weather makes you wanna dance.
WWD: You began releasing music in 2022, and since then you’ve been championed by Diplo, remixed his single with Miguel, ‘Don’t Forget My Love,’ and performed global dates at Coachella, Paradise, Space, and KoKo. How does it feel to be checking off so many boxes at this stage in your career?
Reflecting on it makes me feel very grateful. Having opportunities to share music and connect with people via the dance floor is pure adrenaline. So yeah, those opportunities are a gift.
WWD: This year alone, you’ve shared line-ups with some incredible artists – from Jamie Jones, and Romy, to Black Coffee, and Marco Carola. Who would be your dream artist collaboration, and why?
Sedef Adasi, we haven’t met yet but to my ears her DJ sets are mastery. She has a unique way of taking the dance floor on a journey. I also find her releases to be detailed, sexy, driving, and simply cool.
WWD: Lastly, what can we expect from Cole Knight for the remainder of 2024?
I took a couple weeks off in Miami to work on new music and host an EP release party. I’m also super excited to debut my first capsule collection of t-shirts & hoodies inspired by Freak and PSA during the party. Late November / early December I’ll be touring South Asia and the Middle East. Then I pop over to Chicago for one last show before spending the holidays with family. I end the year with my debut South Africa tour over the New Year period. A lot of exciting moments ahead.
WWD: Sounds amazing! Thanks for the chat, Cole 🙂
The ‘Freak’ EP is available here